Fall is finally here, and Council Bluffs is turning colors. We’ve put together this itinerary to help you take advantage of the crisp air and soak up the “fall feels” all around town.
But First, Coffee
Brighten your morning with a seasonal coffee and a pastry from Stay Sweet, Nicola's. With a selection of coffee as robust as the aromas, this quaint shop roasts the perfect cup of joe to kickstart your day. Grab a fresh-baked slice of coffee cake, scone, or croissant, and take it to go to savor at Bayliss Park down the street.
Bike Ride
Get a dose of fresh air from the seat of a bike – a BCycle bike! Heartland BCycle has several stations in Council Bluffs along our extensive trail system. Start at the Wabash Trace trailhead station for a ride down the wooded trace, or pass through Iowa School for the Deaf along the sunny Valley View trail. Either route, you’re sure to be surrounded by lovely fall colors.
Orchards and Pumpkin Patches
A great way to embrace fall is to pick your own apples or pumpkins. Council Bluffs has several options:
- Welch’s Pumpkin Patch, located at 17676 Sunnydale Road
- Ditmar’s Orchard, located at 19475 225th Street
- Pioneer Trail Pumpkin Patch, located at 21534 Chestnut Road
Dine Outdoors
By now you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Dine outdoors on the historic 100 Block with a quick bite to eat from Barleys, Dixie Quicks, or Glory Days. The 100 Block patios are the perfect place to kick up your feet while you refuel and take in the autumn afternoon.
Swing by a Park
Take the afternoon to stretch your legs with a visit to one of the many parks in Council Bluffs. Kirn Park has a brand new playground for the kids, while Prospect and Graham are close to the 100 Block. Golfers can spend the afternoon swinging at one of our beautiful courses. Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park has the ideal open green space to bring a blanket, Frisbee or kite and relax on the riverfront. While you're at it, take a stroll over the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and stand in two states at once, just because.
Catch the Sunset
Before you call it a day, stop by the Lewis and Clark Monument just north of Big Lake Park. The ledges are steep, and the views are wide. It’s one of the best places to see all of the trees in their pretty fall colors.
